The Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at Viterbo University works to build an inclusive community and a supportive environment for all students, faculty, staff, and alumni. The Division fosters a campus environment that uplifts individuals’ diverse identities, lived experiences, and cultural backgrounds. The Division encourages mutual enrichment, development, intercultural engagement, and understanding.
DEI INCLUDES THE AREAS OF
International Student Support
Works with multiple partners on campus and within the greater La Crosse community to provide comprehensive services to meet the needs of the diverse population that is Viterbo’s international student body by:
- Hosting new International Student Orientation
- Providing personal & academic assistance through one on one meetings
- Offering social activities on and off campus to cultivate a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures within the United States
Study Abroad | Study Away
Provides students with opportunities to study abroad/away in a full semester or a summer program. Students earn credit towards major, minor, or core curriculum requirements in programs designed toward:
- Enhancing participants' global competency
- Developing cultural awareness and respectful interactions in increasingly diverse societies
- Fostering global interconnectedness
Multicultural Support & Inclusive Programming
Seeks to cultivate inclusion, belonging, and retention for students, faculty, and staff by:
- Advocating for all underrepresented populations on campus
- Providing opportunities for intercultural engagement
- Hosting social justice and equity training and events
- Working to create safe and identity-affirming spaces for students, faculty, and staff
Our Team:
Marlene De La Cruz-Guzmán, PhD (she/her/hers)
Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
NRC 402
608-796-3403
mdelacruzguzman@viterbo.edu
Melissa Collum, PhD (she/her/hers)
Director, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
NRC 412
608-796-3170
mcollum@viterbo.edu
Maria Moreno Parra, PhD (she/her/hers)
Title IX and Equity Coordinator
NRC 424
msmoreno@viterbo.edu
Melissa K Giefer, MA (she/her/hers)
International and ESL Program Coordinator
NRC 420
608-796-3197
mkgiefer@viterbo.edu
Raghad Al-Khazraji, MBA (she/her/hers)
Program Coordinator, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
NRC 415
ralkhazraji@viterbo.edu
Allison Mormann (she/her/hers)
Graduate Assistant
NRC 415
608-796-3172
asmormann@viterbo.edu